A special open day at the Island’s crematorium has been hailed a great success, raising an impressive £322 for SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) while bringing the community together to mark a significant milestone.

The event, which celebrated the crematorium’s 65th anniversary, embraced a 1960s theme, with visitors enjoying a nostalgic atmosphere including period vehicles and music throughout the day.

Guests were treated to displays of classic cars and vintage buses, thanks to the support of local car clubs and the bus museum, helping to bring the era to life.

The day also featured popular crematorium tours, giving visitors a greater understanding of the services provided, alongside community stands and displays from local cemetery friends groups.

A highlight of the event was the wide selection of homemade cakes and refreshments, generously provided by family and friends, and expertly served by members of the Women’s Institute, whose support added to the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Organisers have extended their thanks to the many local stakeholders and businesses who donated prizes for the raffle, helping to boost fundraising efforts for SANDS.

Janice Lord, bereavement services manager, said: “It was truly a wonderful day and a fantastic example of the community coming together. We’re delighted to have raised £322 for SANDS, a charity that provides such vital support to families.

“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to the car clubs and bus museum for their beautiful period vehicles, to our stakeholders for their generous raffle prizes, to the WI for serving refreshments, to all those who baked such amazing cakes, and to the cemetery friends groups for their engaging displays.

“A huge personal thank you also goes to the bereavement services team. The grounds looked absolutely immaculate, which is a credit to the hard work of our grounds team.

“I’m equally grateful to the office team for planning and delivering the day, giving up their time over the weekend to make it such a success.”